Listen, we love hikes just as much as the next Mainer. They’re a great way to clear your head and find some peace and quiet. But another great way to enjoy the beauty of Maine is to hop in your car and explore. Coos Canyon Waterfall in Maine can be seen directly from your car and we think it’s a fun way to enjoy the outdoors with a little less effort.

Coos Canyon, located in Byron, can be reached by driving on Route 17, a scenic highway. In a way, the journey to the falls is just as beautiful as the destination.
Google Maps
It's nearly impossible to miss the turnoff for the falls. In fact, you'll see the parking area directly from the road. Just follow the rest area sign.
TryppAdams / TripAdvisor
Once you've arrived, you'll see that this is more than just a waterfall. It's a large area with a variety of places to swim and climb on rocks.
travelingotter / Flickr
The cascade was formed by rocks in the Swift River and the total drop of the falls is about 15 feet.
floridagal2015 / TripAdvisor

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We especially love it between April and November when the falls and river are flowing with the snow melt of the winter and summer rainwater, but you are welcome to take in the beauty of Coos Canyon Waterfall in Maine any time of year.
dougtone / Flickr
And the best part is the accessibility. Visitors can park in the parking area overlooking the river, which means it's just a quick walk to take a dip.
floridagal2015 / TripAdvisor
Many sections of the river here are deep enough for swimming and jumping, but always be sure to check the depth before getting in or leaping.
travelingotter / Flickr
In the summer, it's great to enjoy a swim while listening to the falls.
rain0975 / Flickr
And in colder times, you can take in the falls without even getting out of the car!
ottersRus / TripAdvisor
But this area is so beautiful that we think there's a good chance you'll want to get a closer look.

Have you been taking in the great outdoors from the comfort of your own car? What are some other great places to road trip?

Now that you’ve got nature on the brain, how about seeing if there are more waterfalls near me? Looking for some of the best waterfall hikes in Maine? Check out the ultimate Maine waterfalls road trip!!

 

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Me

Rachel Raimondi | April 07, 2022

What are the best waterfall hikes in Maine?

The state of Maine has over 50 waterfalls within its over 35,000 square miles, each with their own unique characteristics, heights, water flow, and of course, locations. So if you are looking for hiking trails with waterfalls in Maine, there’s a lot to choose from. If you are around The Forks in Somerset County, head to the 2.1-mile out-and back-hike to Moxie Falls and its 90-foot drop. If you are around Andover in Oxford County, head to the 1.9-mile loop trail at Dunn Falls and its 70-foot drop.

Which state parks should I visit in Maine?

There are 32 state parks in Maine. One of the most popular (and spectacular!) is Baxter State Park in Millinocket, which is home to Mount Katahdin, the very highest elevation in the state at 5,269 feet. If you decide to hike to it, know that it’s a 4,000-foot elevation gain and on average, takes 10–12 hours to complete. Then there’s also Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, a 47,000-acre area where you can hike, bike, or even swim in the ocean at Sand Beach or swim in freshwater at Echo Lake Beach.

What are the best beaches in Maine?

Considering Maine has just shy of 3,500 miles of coastline, it’s a great spot on the East Coast for beaches. Aside from the two mentioned above in Acadia National Park, there are a bunch more places to dig your toes into the sand. If you are looking for ones with an assortment of things to do nearby, check out York County’s Old Orchard Beach or Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth. If you prefer your beach days to be a little quieter and more relaxing, check out Roque Bluffs Beach in Washington County or take a short hike out to Laudholm Beach in Wells.

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Coos Canyon, Byron, ME 04275, USA